An amazing tour de force of the Japanese metal workers art, with gold and silver inlay of wisteria vines. The workmanship is so incredibly tiny and exacting.An ovoid cast iron sword guard that is heavy and smooth with gold decoration applied in a design of wisteria vines and with applied silver wisteria blossoms. The black iron metal is a good foil for the bright gold wisteria vines. The naturalistic design of the wisteria is captured in the way the vine trails and travels around the Tsuba.There are no maker marks.MEASUREMENTS2 5/8a€ (6.7 cm) tall x 2 7/16a€ (2.4 cm) wide x 1/8a€ (4mm) thick. Weighs 3.8 oz (110 g)CONDITIONThere are no cracks, dents or breaks. There are some oxidization spots to the iron. Part of a leaf is missing at the bottom front.A true work of art by a Japanese metal smith. A true museum piece to be admired.Item ID: A-1956